Just finished one of our two required readings. Nova, by Samuel R. Delany, was first published in 1968. It is beautiful. The book follows a crew in search of a rare substance, which can be obtained in large quantities by flying through a star when it goes nova. The hero is flawed, the villains are twisted, and philosophy abounds.
I especially loved the inclusion of the Tarot throughout. Now I really wish I had learned more about it when I was younger and fascinated by the cards. Also, I'm very grateful that I took a course in astronomy in college. It definitely helped!
I'm looking forward to talking about how Delany builds his world(s). In case I hadn't totally sold the book to you, here's my favorite passage...
“I was born,” the Mouse said. “I must die. I am suffering. Help me. There, I just wrote your book for you.”
Katin looked at his big, weak fingers against the mail. After a while, he said, “Mouse, sometimes you make me want to cry.”
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